A stage collapse scenario replicating a real-world incident in Seymour last night has been deemed a success with hundreds of emergency personnel able to put their training into practice.
More than 200 personnel from CFA, VICSES, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Mitchell Shire Council, Department of Defence, and La Trobe University came together on Thursday evening to take part in a large-scale emergency management exercise.
The training exercise simulated a festival stage collapse caused by a structural failure creating a mass-casualty scenario that required a coordinated emergency services response.
Event organiser and Captain of Trawool Fire Brigade, Sean Kerris, said the exercise was a great opportunity to practice their training in a structured environment.
"The scenario was developed using lessons learned from real-world incidents, including the Indiana State Fair stage collapse in the United States, helping to create a realistic and challenging environment for participating agencies," Sean said.
"Throughout the exercise, participants worked through a range of emergency management functions including incident control, rescue operations, casualty management, communications, resource coordination and inter-agency decision-making."
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan AFSM said exercises similar to this play a critical role in ensuring emergency services remain prepared for complex incidents.
"While major stage collapse incidents are rare, they remain a recognised risk wherever large crowds gather. Training together in realistic scenarios strengthens our ability to respond effectively and coordinate resources when communities need us most," Jason said.
VICSES Operations Manager North East, Scott Ritcher, said the exercise highlighted the value of collaboration between services to strengthen local emergency response.
"Our volunteers go above and beyond to ensure they are prepared and ready to support their community in times of emergency," Scott said.
"By taking part in realistic, large-scale training initiatives such as these, our volunteers can bolster their emergency response skillset and build important cohesiveness with their fellow first responders."
